01Torch and spare batteries
Torches are safer than candles in a power cut. Keep spare batteries with it, in the same drawer, so you're not hunting in the dark.
Kit
The kit list, and what to look for
The essentials from the GOV.UK Be Ready checklist, with a line of plain advice on each. Product picks are on the way; when we add links, we'll only recommend kit we'd use ourselves and we'll always label affiliate links clearly.
02FM radio, battery or wind-up
When phones and internet are down, local radio is how official updates reach you. Note your local station's frequency on the fridge plan.
03Charged power bank
Enough to keep a phone going for a few days. Put a reminder in your calendar to recharge it when you check your kit.
04Bottled water
3 litres per person, per day, for drinking: 36 litres for a family of four. Sealed bottles keep; check the dates every six months.
05Food that needs no fridge or cooking
Tins with ring-pulls, dried fruit, nuts. Buy what your family already eats, so nothing goes to waste when you rotate it.
06Cash, cards and copies of documents
A mix of coins and notes in case card machines are down, plus copies of ID and key documents in a sealed bag.
07First aid kit and medication
A basic first aid kit and enough essential medication and supplies, with doses written down.
08Blankets and warm layers
Heating may go off with the power. Blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing count as kit.
Based on the GOV.UK Be Ready checklist. General information only.